what to do if you accidentally shower with contacts

3 min read 23-12-2024

what to do if you accidentally shower with contacts

Meta Description: Oops! Showered with your contacts in? Don't panic! This guide provides step-by-step instructions on what to do if you accidentally shower with contacts, including how to clean them properly and when to see an eye doctor. Learn about the risks of wearing contacts in the shower and how to prevent it from happening again. This comprehensive guide ensures your eye health remains a top priority.

The Accidental Shower: Contacts Edition

We've all been there – that rushed morning where you forget to take out your contacts before hopping in the shower. Showering with contacts is a common mishap, but it's crucial to know how to handle the situation to protect your eye health. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to minimize the risk of infection and irritation.

Immediate Actions After Showering With Contacts

The first thing to do after realizing you showered with your contacts is to remove them immediately. Don't delay!

Gentle Removal: Use a clean, wet finger to carefully remove your contacts. Avoid rubbing or pulling harshly, as this can damage your eyes.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your contacts under a stream of clean, cool, running water. This helps remove any lingering soap, shampoo, or other contaminants.
Inspect the Lenses: Look for any visible damage or debris on the lenses before handling them.

Cleaning Your Contacts After an Accidental Shower

Even after rinsing, a thorough cleaning is essential.

How to Clean Your Contacts:

Wash Your Hands: Before handling your contacts, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Use Contact Lens Solution: Clean your contacts using a fresh solution recommended by your eye doctor. Follow the instructions on the solution bottle carefully. Never reuse old solution.
Store Properly: Once cleaned, store your contacts in a fresh case with a fresh solution.

Important Note: If your contacts show any signs of damage (tears, rips, or discoloration), discard them immediately and use a fresh pair. Never attempt to repair a damaged contact lens.

When to See an Eye Doctor After Showering With Contacts

While rinsing and cleaning are important, some situations require professional medical attention. Consult your eye doctor immediately if you experience:

Eye pain or discomfort: Any persistent pain, redness, or irritation warrants a visit to your doctor.
Blurred vision: A sudden change in your vision could indicate a problem.
Excessive tearing or discharge: Unusual discharge or excessive tearing may signal an infection.
Sensitivity to light: Increased sensitivity to light is a cause for concern.

Preventing Future Showering Mishaps

Here are some preventative measures to ensure this doesn't happen again:

Establish a Routine: Develop a consistent routine for removing your contacts before bed and before showering. Place your contact case in a visible spot as a reminder.
Visual Reminders: Use sticky notes, alarms, or other reminders to reinforce your routine.
Consider Daily Disposable Lenses: Daily disposables eliminate the need for cleaning and reduce the risk of contamination.

Long-Term Risks of Showering With Contacts

While a single incident is usually not cause for major alarm, regularly showering with contacts significantly increases your risk of:

Eye infections: Contaminants in the shower water can easily lead to infections.
Corneal abrasions: Soap and shampoo can irritate the cornea, leading to scratches.
Dry eyes: The chlorine and other chemicals in shower water can dry out your eyes.

Conclusion: Prioritize Your Eye Health

Showering with contacts may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it’s crucial to prioritize your eye health. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of complications and keep your eyes healthy. Remember, regular eye exams and adherence to proper contact lens hygiene are vital for long-term eye health. Always consult your eye doctor if you have any concerns.